Dr. Mogell Dental Blog

Boca Raton Cosmetic Dentist

WHAT TO DO IF MY TOOTH IS KNOCKED OUT

Thursday, June 19, 2008

It can happen at anytime. Teeth can be knocked out from a fall, sporting event, or an accident. There are many “what to do” suggestions that we have heard of over the years, however, there is only one right way to deal with a lost tooth. Here is what you need to do should this happen to you or a member of your family.

First, look for the tooth; it is important that you find it immediately. When you do find it, do not pick it up by the root. When you touch the root of an exposed tooth, you may cause damage to it and prevent it from being capable of reattaching to the bone. If the tooth cannot be found, you must go to the emergency room to make sure you did not inhale/swallow the tooth.

When you find the tooth, rinse it off with cold water to remove any debris. Do not scrub the tooth, dry it off, wrap it in anything, or remove any of the pieces of the tooth that are still attached. When the tooth is clean from any dirt or debris, try to place it back in the socket with your fingers. After placing it back in, do not push too hard, but gently bite down and hold it in place. Immediately call the office and we will see you right away. It is always better if you can get in to see us within 30 minutes of losing the tooth, but you MUST be seen within 1-2 hours.

If you try and cannot place it back into the socket, you can also place it in the following:
1. Milk for up to one hour
2. salt water for up to 15 minutes
3. saliva for up to 30 minutes (you can put it between your cheek and gum)
4. contact lens saline solution

Remember, when a tooth is lost time is the most important factor. You must call us immediately and we will schedule you right away. If this happens on the weekend, Dr. Mogell is only a phone call away, call the office to page him.

Kenneth A. Mogell, D.M.D.